I myself also just bought a new drift boat and had never been behind the sticks. I read a good book called Drift boat Strategies rowing and fishing skills for the western angler. Written by Neale Streeks. The book helped me with a good basic understanding of what to do/not do. I myself just jumped in a took a float. A few things that I will mention is that I floated a easy drift a few times before moving on to the next river. I have river experence from owning a sled( which is a different bird altogether) for a few years and also drifted the same water that I've run in my sled. All of which helped in my decission not to hire a guide first. I will also tell you that I have never been so scared in my life as to my first drift. I would recommend that you take someone with you that has rowed before. Take a mello drift and wear a life jacket.I'm sure that there are a few guys that wouldn't mind taking a cracker out for the first time I myself would also be interested in having someone showing me the stick while pulling plugs. Any take downs?
Good luck and be safe.
Bill